2025 NASCAR Cup Series Final Practice: Key Insights and Results
The final practice session for the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series concluded with intense competition, highlighting both speed and technical challenges among the title contenders at Phoenix Raceway.
Ty Gibbs emerged as the fastest driver with a lap time of 27.300 seconds, clocking in at 131.868 mph. He was closely followed by Ryan Blaney, who posted a time of 27.419 seconds (131.406 mph), and Austin Cindric, at 27.427 seconds (131.377 mph). Rounding out the top five were Ryan Preece (27.439 seconds, 131.353 mph) and Denny Hamlin (27.485 seconds, 131.262 mph), despite encountering clutch issues during the session.
Chase Elliott secured the sixth spot, clocking 131.147 mph, with Ross Chastain and Josh Berry following closely behind in seventh and eighth positions, respectively. William Byron (ninth) and Christopher Bell (tenth) completed the top ten. Notably, Kyle Larson, who brushed the wall, finished eleventh but did not sustain significant damage.
Chase Briscoe had notable struggles, finishing sixteenth after a left rear tire issue resulted in limited practice time—running just 24 laps compared to Larson’s 69 and Hamlin’s 65.
The session was marred by multiple tire failures, affecting several drivers. Daniel Suarez and AJ Allmendinger each experienced two left rear tire issues, with Allmendinger suffering a severe crash. Kyle Busch also lost a tire late in practice, and Riley Herbst hit the wall due to his tire problems.
Briscoe addressed the challenges, stating, “It’s unfortunate that it’s happening, but at least we’re not on an island by ourselves.” He expressed confidence in his team to resolve the issues before the race, pointing out that the extended practice session allows for necessary adjustments.
Ryan Blaney showcased strong performance in consecutive lap averages, leading in the 5, 10, and 20-lap counts. Kyle Larson was fastest in the 15 and 25-lap averages, while William Byron topped the 30-lap metrics.
With 38 teams entered for the season finale, anticipation builds ahead of qualifying set for Saturday at 5 p.m. ET.
